Government jobs in Singapore

A Private Secretary (PS) is

a senior assistant and gatekeeper for a high-level individual

, like a government minister, CEO, or royal, managing their schedule, communications, and confidential matters, acting as the crucial link between them and their organization or department, often overseeing policy implementation and providing essential advice, with roles varying in scope from managing a personal office to heading a large private office.

• Gatekeeping:Controls access to the principal (the person they support).
• Diary & Correspondence:Manages complex schedules, meetings, and incoming/outgoing communications.
• Policy & Advice:Briefs the principal on policy, departmental matters, and parliamentary protocol.
• Coordination:Liaises with other officials to ensure the principal's aims are met.
• Support:Attends meetings, takes notes, and handles discrete projects.

• Government (UK):Acivil servantsupporting a Minister or Secretary of State; the Prime Minister's PS is a senior civil servant (Principal Private Secretary).
• Royal Household:Supports members of the Royal Family, with the Sovereign's PS being a very significant figure.
• Corporate:Supports a CEO or senior executive, handling personal and confidential business affairs.
• US Equivalent:AChief of Staffis comparable in some ways.

While PAs handle notes and papers, a PS often takes on broader strategic responsibilities, acting as a key advisor and managing the principal's entire office and workflow, not just administrative tasks.

The role is demanding but highly influential, often a fast-track to senior leadership within the civil service or an important stepping stone in business.